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January 12, 2025

Relentless Pursuit of Trusting God

Pastor Darrin explores the concept of trusting God, acknowledging that everyone has trust issues stemming from negative experiences. Using the story of Jesus walking on water from Matthew 14:22-32, he illustrates how Jesus calls us to step out in faith, even in the midst of life's storms. The sermon emphasizes that trusting God means relentlessly pursuing Him, regardless of our circumstances.

Sermon Notes

I have trust issues.

Where do I struggle to fully trust God?

Defining Trust

  • Competency, Character, Connection
  • Care, Communication, Consistency
  • Commitment, Contribution, Clarity, Compassion
  • Integrity, Loyalty, Openness
  • Positive Relationships, Good Judgement

Trust: Belief in the reliability, truth, ability, or strength of ___ . (Jesus)

Healthy relationships depend on trust.

Matthew 14:22-23 NIV

Immediately Jesus made the disciples get into the boat and go on ahead of him to the other side, while he dismissed the crowd. After he had dismissed them, he went up on a mountainside by himself to pray. Later that night, he was there alone,

Jesus knew what they were headed into, and He commanded them into it.

Matthew 14:24 NIV

and the boat was already a considerable distance from land, buffeted by the waves because the wind was against it.

Matthew 14:25-26 NIV

Shortly before dawn Jesus went out to them, walking on the lake. When the disciples saw him walking on the lake, they were terrified. “It’s a ghost,” they said, and cried out in fear.

Fear paralyzes us AND erodes trust.

Matthew 14:27 NIV

But Jesus immediately said to them: “Take courage! It is I. Don’t be afraid.”

Greek Word - tharseó: Take courage, be of good cheer, be confident

Jesus always provides assurance when you are doing what He’s called you to do.

Matthew 14:28-29 NIV

“Lord, if it’s you,” Peter replied, “tell me to come to you on the water.” 

“Come,” he said.

Then Peter got down out of the boat, walked on the water and came toward Jesus.

Get out of the boat.

Matthew 14:30 NIV

But when he saw the wind, he was afraid and, beginning to sink, cried out, “Lord, save me!”

When you are sinking where do you go?

Matthew 14:31 NIV

Immediately Jesus reached out his hand and caught him. “You of little faith,” he said, “why did you doubt?” 

What God calls you to, He will lead you through.

Matthew 14:32-33 NIV

And when they climbed into the boat, the wind died down. Then those who were in the boat worshiped him, saying, “Truly you are the Son of God.”

Trusting God means Relentlessly Pursuing God in the middle of the mess.


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